Foreign
entry requirements vary from country to country. Following is a list
and explanation of the most common entry requirements for U.S. citizens
traveling for tourism or business purposes. The foreign entry
requirements listed may not apply for those traveling for study, work
or emmigration.

Passports

A
valid passport is the most common travel document required for entry
into a foreign country. More than 80% of all countries in the world
require this document. Even if it is not required for entrance into a
foreign country, it is required to re-enter the United States in most
cases.

Citizens of the United States who travel to a country where a valid U.S. passport
is not required will need documentary evidence of their U.S. citizenship and valid proof of
identity. Proof of U.S. citizenship includes an expired U.S. passport, a certified
(original) birth certificate, Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of
Citizenship, or Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States.
Identity can be proven by a valid driver's license or government identification card.
However, for travel overseas and to facilitate reentry into the U.S., a valid
U.S. passport is the best documentation available and unquestionably proves
your U.S. citizenship.

Some countries require that your U.S. passport be valid at least 6 months
or longer beyond the dates of your trip. Other countries require only 3
months of validity. If your passport expires before the required
validity, you need to renew it before you travel.

Some Middle Eastern or African countries will not issue visas or allow entry if your passport
indicates travel to Israel. Be aware of any special situations for the places you plan to visit.

Visas

An entry visa is basically a stamp that is placed on the appropriate page of your passport.
It is the responsibility of the traveler to obtain visas, where required, from the embassy or nearest consulate of the country you are planning to visit or through a travel document expediter.
As soon as you receive your visa, check it to make sure
no mistakes were made. Processing and visa fees vary, and most fees
may not be refundable. For specific details, consult the Embassy
or Consulate of the country you plan to visit.

Before you
send your passport through the mail to apply for a visa, sign it in ink, and
write in pencil your current address and daytime telephone number in the space
provided. This will help the U.S. Postal Service return it to you should it
become separated from the envelope during processing.

Immunizations

Under the International Health Regulations adopted by the World Health
Organization, a country may require International Certificates of Vaccination
against yellow fever, especially if you are traveling from an area of the
world that is infected with yellow fever. Prophylactic medication for malaria
and certain other preventive measures are advisable for travel to some countries.
No immunizations are required to return to the United States. Detailed health
information may be obtained from your local healthcare provider or by contacting
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
telephone 1-877- 394-8747.

AIDS/HIV Testing

An increasing number of countries have established regulations
regarding AIDS testing, particularly for long-term visitors. Although many
are listed here, check with the Embassy or Consulate of the country that you
plan to visit to verify if this is a requirement for entry.

Additional Fees

All international flights are subject to U.S. Immigration and
U.S. Customs fees paid in advance as part of your ticket. In addition, many
countries have departure fees that are sometimes collected at the time of
ticket purchase or upon exiting the foreign country.

IMPORTANT: The foreign entry requirements listed here were
obtained from foreign embassies or consulates. This information is
subject to change. Verify the data with the consular officials of the
countries you plan to visit well in advance. For further information,
see our embassy list.